It is claimed that Sunderland were hoping to loan McCormack, who spent four years at Leeds United before moving to Aston Villa via Fulham.
It is claimed that Sunderland were hoping to sign McCormack on loan, but are yet to agree a fee with Villa.
Ross McCormack in action for Aston Villa
However, Leeds are also in the market for another striker after allowing Marcus Antonsson to spend the campaign at Blackburn Rovers, while Chris Wood was the subject of an approach from Burnley last week.
The Whites have been strongly linked with a move for Hamburg’s Pierre-Michel Lasogga, who was spotted in West Yorkshire at the weekend.
But it would appear they also have their eye on McCormack, who left Elland Road for Fulham three years ago.
The Scotland international scored 58 goals in 157 games for Leeds and a further 42 in 100 for the Cottagers, prompting a £12 million transfer to Aston Villa at the start of last season.
Ross McCormack in action for Leeds
But he has so far struggled to recapture his previous form at Villa Park and spent the second half of the campaign on loan to Nottingham Forest.
A return to Leeds, the club McCormack’s young son has continued to support, could therefore appeal to the 30-year-old, especially with Massimo Cellino out of the picture.
The Whites’ former owner had accused McCormack of disrespecting him as he sought a transfer to Fulham.
Should Leeds bring McCormack back from Aston Villa? And would failing to sign him be a blow for Sunderland?
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